A GUIDE TO STUDYING BIOLOGY ABROAD Watching a bicolor angelfish in a tank in your university’s lab is one thing, but seeing one amongst the coral of the Great Barrier Reef is another experience altogether. Studying biology abroad provides you with the opportunity to experience first-­‐hand the subject and the incredible organisms and ecosystems that you are studying. Don’t be afraid to dive in and learn more about both the world of biology and the rest of the world as well! WHY STUDY ABROAD? Biology study abroad programs allow you to step outside of the classroom and into the world you’ve been studying in textbooks. The practical knowledge gained from fieldwork on-­‐location not only strengthens your resume, but also your capabilities as a scientist. The cultural experience of studying biology abroad also gives you the chance to learn from another country’s approach to conservation and research. Learning how to partner with diverse cultures and work together in the field of biology are just a few of the incredible opportunities that studying abroad provides. LOCATIONS Where you decide to study biology abroad is dependent upon your interests within the subject, as the ecosystems in the Mediterranean can vary greatly from those in the Pacific. There are many great destinations around the world to study marine biology. For example, Australia struggles to preserve its Great Barrier Reef—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—in the face of economic pressure to expand oil mining. As a result in study abroad program in Australia, students the chance to explore the world’s largest coral reef system with a focus on not only the biodiversity of the reef, but also the sustainability issues that are inevitably tied to conservation of such an important ecosystem. COURSES & PROGRAMS The structure of your program depends on which biology study abroad program you choose. Some biology courses abroad combine classroom learning with hands-­‐on fieldwork; as such, some previous lab experience could be required. It is important to thoroughly research each study abroad program to ensure that the area of study pertains to your interests within the field of biology. BENEFITS Studying biology abroad allows you to explore your interests both inside and outside of the classroom and being able to physically observe organisms in their natural habitats gives you a much more thorough understanding of biology as a whole. Hands-­‐on fieldwork and practical working knowledge in a lab are excellent experiences to demonstrate to grad schools or future employers in a number of fields. Aside from the excellent academic experience, studying abroad also offers the opportunity to explore another country’s culture and its approach to scientific work. The challenge of adapting to a new country—a new ecosystem, if you will—can only help you grow into a better student, a conscientious scientist, and a true global explorer. SJU SEMSTER ABROAD PROGRAMS Please note the list of programs and courses are only listed as a guide and does not guarantee automatic approval of courses counting for SJU academic credit. You will work with both your Academic Advisor and Study Abroad Advisor to determine the program and courses to best meet your needs. All courses must be approved by the appropriate SJU Department Chair or Associate Dean prior to studying abroad. Ø Danish Institute for Study Abroad, Denmark o Sample Courses: Biological conservation and Biodiversity, Biology of Marine Mammals, Epigenetics and the Environment, Human Health & Disease, Environmental Microbiology, How Plants Changed the World Ø IFSA-­‐Butler: Macquarie University, Australia o Sample Courses: Evolution and Biodiversity, Human Biology, The Thread of Life, Ø Lancaster University, England o Sample Courses: Biotechnology, Cell Structure and Function, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Zoology Ø University College of Cork, Ireland o Sample Courses: Cells, Biomolecules, Genetics & Evolution, Physiology and Structure of Plants & Animals, Intro to Ecology, Evolution and Diversity Ø Saint Louis University, Spain o Sample Courses: Principles of Biology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Cell Structure & Funtion In addition to Biology Major/Minor courses, you may also be able to take some of SJU’s GEP courses while abroad, including but not limited to: Art/Lit, Social Science, Religious Difference & Philosophical Anthropology. Can’t find a program or university on our approved list that appeals to you? You can always petition to attend another study abroad program of your choosing with more information can be found on our website. NEXT STEPS ¨ Meet with the Study Abroad Advisor | Learn about your options ¨ Meet with your Academic Advisor | Discuss course selection ¨ Apply for a passport | http://travel.state.gov/passport ¨ Apply to study abroad! | Applications are due to the CIP office by: March 1st for the Fall semester abroad, and October 1st for the Spring semester abroad Center for International Programs | Saint Joseph’s University 183 W. City Avenue | 610-­‐660-­‐1835 | [email protected]| internationalprograms.sju.edu adapted from goabroad.com